DMX treated reporters to an impromptu rap outside a Phoenix courtroom Thursday after pleading not guilty to felony charges of theft and identity theft. The 37-year-old rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, allegedly gave the name, "Troy Jones" and an incorrect Social Security number to a Scottsdale hospital in April to avoid paying $7,500 in medical expenses.

When asked for comments by the reporters, DMX rapped, “If and when you ever fall down, get back up. ... Stand for something or fall for everything. Wait for the right pitch, you’ll miss every swing.”

The rapper's record label, Bodog Music, is backing him.

"We wouldn't work with DMX period if we didn't believe he was just a victim of circumstance," said Peter Karroll, president of Bodog. "The sheriff in Phoenix is definitely targeting him. It's unbelievable."

Simons had been involved in a number of legal problems. In May, he was arrested on suspicion of drug possession and animal cruelty after search parties discovered weapons, drugs, dog carcasses and abused pit bulls at his home.